Biking Bonanza

Gianna Merritt hears about Bike to School Day, on Wednesday, May 10, from Thompson Middle School student Katie Serth. Next Friday, May 19 is national Bike to Work day and Bike Newport is encouraging folks to ditch their car for the day and hop on a bicycle for the commute to and from work.

If anyone lives too far away or over the bridge, the organization is allowing commuters to park their cars at 437 Broadway and bike from there. The day starts with a bike commuter breakfast on the lawn of city hall from 7 to 9 a.m. At 4 p.m., bicycling commuters are welcome back to the city hall lawn for announcement of the bike-friendly business of the year. After that, at 5 p.m., a police-escorted, 3-mile group ride around downtown Newport will commence.

And, in just a few weeks, “Elliot’s Ride for Safety and Wellness” is being planned for Sunday, June 11, at Brenton Point State Park at 2 p.m. Billed as “A Ride for Everyone!” the goal is to get as many people on bikes as possible and ride together along the ocean. There is no fee to participate.

Riders can take the short two-mile loop once or many times around, hopping on and off the loop at Brenton Point State Park for refreshment, music and bicycle activities.

Elliot’s Kid Zone, sponsored by the RIDOT Highway Safety Department, will be on-site at the park. The Kid Zone will feature safe cycling activities for youngsters, including helmet fittings, bike safety checks, and a place to practice their biking skills. Music, yoga, kite flying and other activities will further complement the bike ride and the majestic sea views.

People can ride, walk, bus, or drive to the event in Brenton Point. There will be a group ride leaving from Miantonomi Park for more experienced riders to ride the seven miles to the park together. And, a dedicated bus will be available to bring people and their bikes to the park.

For more information and to register, volunteer, donate, and sponsor, visit elliotsride.org or call Bike Newport at 401-619-4900.